Greens, blues and yellows, zucchini pie and ancient fish markets are some of the many memories of a land lost in time. Enjoy the luxury of having a knowledgeable guide by your side as you hike through the small hill towns of this isolated region along the Italian Riviera. This walking tour has been designed for travelers of all ages and ability levels and explores the Ligurian coast from Portofino National Park and through all five fishing villages. You are able to choose from daily easy to moderate hikes and then regroup so that everyone can enjoy the same tour regardless of your preferred pace.
Day 1: Island Exploration:
We transfer to Portovenere, an ancient fortified town located at the extreme south end of the Cinque Terre coast. Here the full charm of the colorful Italian way of life opens itself up to you. From our rooms we command oceanfront views that feature a look at the fisherman's way of life. We visit the 14th century castle perched above the sea at the edge of the town, then for a warm-up walk we boat to the tiny nearby islands known for their abundant mussels and beautiful caves. You may wish to swim in the grotto frequented by Byron, or meander amongst the colorful rows of shops and houses before a grand welcoming seafood dinner.
Day 2: Panoramic Views:
We board a boat for an offshore view of the five magical fishing villages and the rugged coastline that left them isolated for so many centuries. From the tiny village of Riomaggiore you begin a glorious hike that takes in breathtaking views and offers insight into the people and culture of this region. The surrounding high steep slopes of a dramatic valley dotted with cleverly built homes leave a lasting impression, as does a lunchtime slice of the local specialty, chestnut cake. With fields of wild flowers and the scent of pine leading the way, we hike up to the tiny village of Campiglia where the onward trail of inspiring views over the Bay of La Spezia and Portovenere has everyone reaching for their cameras.
Day 3: Pilgrim Trading Routes:
Hiking in this surreal environment has a charm which is bound to please all of your senses as we spend a day walking among the olive groves, fig trees, red poppies and vineyards. We begin along the romantic lover's lane, carved along the coastal cliff, from Riomaggiore to stunning Manarola. This village built on a sheer cliff above the sea demands that we take our time wandering the narrow alleyways of colorful houses and shops that lead to its castle of 1273. Bright yellow lemon trees with deep green leaves and the sparkling blue sea as the backdrop impress even the novice photographer. We leave the more crowded trails of the coast for a walk that is etched on the minds of many Andiamo travellers as simply "the best". We head for a village known for it's olive groves and then meander back into the gorges that etch out the inspiring landscapes. Our trail takes us past the famed wine producing vineyards of Sciacchetra and leads us back to the coast into Corniglia, the third coastal village. Here we are treated to a tasting of this special wine, once so highly valued that families would only serve it at extremely special events.
Day 4: Portofino, Ancient Abbey and Nature Park:
We briefly leave the Cinque Terre on day three for a night at the colorful center of the Riviera, Santa Margherita. The next morning we enter a nature reserve to hike our favorite trail in Liguria. From Camogli an unusual trail that's carved into the cliffs leads to a tiny village accessible only by foot or boat, where an ancient Abbey and the "Torre Andrea Doria," a medieval lookout tower, can be explored. Our trail leads us to the port town of Portofino, one of the best-known destinations for the rich and famous that harbor yachts as large as mansions. As we walk along a beautiful stretch of coastline, past the high cliffs and pastel colored villages jutting from the rocks, you will have no doubts as to why this region is so often talked about in travel circles.
Day 5-6: The Last Two Villages:
During our last full day we allow ample time to fully absorb the atmosphere of each of the three villages we visit. From Corniglia, where we had ended our third day's hike, our route takes us along a very lush path that commands excellent views of the sea as well as a spectacular view of incomparable Vernazza--considered by many the most charming of the group. A special lunch with wonderful views down onto Vernazza serves as the perfect dining atmosphere. We absorb the ambiance of this village before starting on the trail to the last of the five villages, Monterosso al Mare--a great spot for a swim and time for reflection.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Inclusions & highlights:
* (3) nights in outstanding 4-star & (2) nights in 3-star on waterfront w/ all breakfast
* (4) full course dinners & (1) lunch
* Maps, snacks and water for trail
* Visits all 5 villages, Portofino, San Futuosso Abbey & Santa Margherita
* Multi-lingual guide(s)
* All tour transfers including meet/depart, all trains, boats...and luggage transfer
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